Collectors–SPs Conference Focuses on Saturation of Schemes, Transparent Administration

Bhubaneswar: The second session of the two-day Collectors and SPs Conference was held on Saturday under the chairmanship of Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, with a strong emphasis on ethical, citizen-centric governance and improved service delivery across the state.

The session began with a welcome address by Additional Chief Secretary, GA and PG Department, Surendra Kumar. The discussions centred on strengthening the Odisha Right to Public Services Act (ORTPSA), achieving saturation of individual entitlements, enhancing welfare scheme coverage, developing community assets, and promoting faceless administration for faster, transparent public service.

Addressing Collectors and senior state officials, Chief Secretary Ahuja reiterated that citizens remain the State’s “most important assets,” and their dignity must be placed at the heart of all administrative actions. He stressed the need for strict adherence to ORTPSA timelines, saturation of key welfare schemes, and accelerated coverage of individual benefits to ensure that no eligible household is left behind.

He further highlighted the importance of building durable community assets and adopting a transparent, faceless governance model to reduce delays and eliminate harassment in service delivery. “Our approach must ensure faster, hassle-free, and dignified access to government services for every citizen,” he said.

Director, Drinking Water & Sanitation, PR & DW Department, Vineet Bharadwaj was present during the deliberations.

The session also featured detailed presentations from several district Collectors, including Deogarh Collector Kabindra Kumar Sahu, Khurda Collector Amrit Ruturaj, Ganjam Collector Keerthi Vasan V, Balasore Collector Suryawanshi Mayur Vikas, and Mayurbhanj Collector Hema Kanta Say. They showcased innovative approaches and best practices adopted in their districts to simplify governance processes, enhance transparency, and ensure effective implementation of welfare schemes.

The second session set a clear roadmap for strengthening citizen-centric governance in Odisha through robust administrative reforms and sustained district-level efforts.